Managing Contaminated Animal and Plant Materials: Field Guide on ...

Safetyenvironmental degradation. The best methodof destruction is fixed-facility burning. Do notbury prion-infected carcasses.Notes on safetyDuring extreme heat, rest periods must beinstated to prevent heat stress <strong>and</strong> dehydration.OSHA recommends establishing a work/restschedule that decreases heat exposure. Developthis schedule according to worker needs.A worker with a core temperature of 100.4°F is considered to be at a heat stress level.To prevent dehydration, allow the workers todrink water at liberty.Heavy equipment operations are inherentlydangerous. Use a safety observer withthe training <strong>and</strong> authority to minimize the riskof dangerous situations.150BurialPrion-based diseases include bovine spongiformencephalopathy.Other suggestions from OSHA:• Implement a training program for managers<strong>and</strong> employees on how to recognize<strong>and</strong> treat heat stress.• Before beginning burial activities,screen the workers to identify existinghealth conditions.• Institute procedural programs guidingthe workers on what to do if a heat-relatedemergency arises.For more information on heat stress <strong>and</strong>work/rest cycles, see the Safety <strong>and</strong> Biosecuritysection of the “General Considerations”chapter of this guide.150